Fiddler on the Roof

Dylan F. Thomas recently returned from teaching as Guest Lecturer and Stage Director at Yale University, where he staged the Opera Scenes and taught his unique acting method, The Dressler Technique, in “Acting for Opera”. Dylan was named Opera Program Manager for the GRAMMY-winning National Children’s Chorus’s youth opera program, National Youth Opera Academy, where he teaches acting and co-directs the fully-staged operas during the summer opera camp. As a singer/actor himself, Dylan has performed all over the world in mahy different musical genres, including opera, musical theater, jazz, pop, and classic rock. He spent 11 months performing in several different productions for Universal Studios in Osaka, Japan, singing for tens of thousands of people every day. At Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre, he had the honor of performing for legendary musical theater lyricist and songwriter Sheldon Harnick in two of Harnick’s musicals: the rarely seen Rex, as well as Fiddler on the Roof. As a passionate educator, Dylan maintains a private acting studio, offering individual, small group, and large group classes for performers in all genres of theater, including musical theater, opera, straight theater, and tv/film. Acting student Eden Kontesz says that Dylan’s technique is “unique, different, and highly effective,” and Grammy-nominated composer Sharon Farber comments that he “offers a new perspective that is truly profound”. Superstar baritone, Quinn Kelsey, a favorite leading baritone at the Metropolitan Opera, shares that Dylan, “utilized his own intuitive twists on the storyline of certain pieces to give me as a singer a different perspective of my interpretation.”

Andrea Bear has captivated audiences with her performances in roles such as The Narrator in “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” Cinderella in “Into the Woods,” and Wendy in “Peter Pan.” Her talents extend beyond the stage, as she has graced symphony orchestras nationwide as a featured soloist and participated in the original cast of the groundbreaking musical, “It’s A Wonderful Life.” With a BFA in Musical Theater from the University of Michigan and an MA from Columbia University in NYC, she is not only a seasoned performer but also a highly sought-after voice teacher and vocal coach, adept in all styles of musical theater and pop. Andrea’s creative endeavors extend to writing, directing, and executive producing numerous large-scale musical reviews and concert events, both domestically and internationally. Notably, she served as a creative consultant for the Grammy Award-winning album and sheet music songbook for The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical. As one of Emily Bear’s original managers for more than 15 years, Andrea played a pivotal role in nurturing her talent and steering her career in the music industry.

Jennifer Kersey is thrilled to exchange her nun habit for a schmatta! Recent credits include The Sound of Music (Sister Sophia, California Theater for the Performing Arts), The Sound of Music (Nun Ensemble, Musical Theater West). Touring Credits: The Sound of Music (Nun Ensemble, Liesl/Louisa understudy, BroadwayAsia Tours), Laura Ingalls Wilder (Laura, Artspower Tours). Other Credits include: Jekyll and Hyde (Emma Carew), Parade (Mary Phagan), Godspell (“Bless the Lord”), “A Goofy Movie” (Max, El Capitan Movie Theater pre-show). Disney Cruise Line: Toy Story the Musical (Andy), Disney Dreams (Anne Marie). Operas: Cendrillon (Cendrillon, by Viardot), Die Fledermaus (Adele). Theme Park Shows: Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knotts Berry Farm (including 5yrs as Cameo Kate), Legoland, Six Flags America, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Paramount’s Kings Dominion. When not performing on a big stage, Jen travels with her independent theater, Storybook Family Playhouse, performing shows for children at libraries and preschools, and singing at senior centers. During the holidays, you can also find her performing as The Singing Mrs. Claus LA or MiraGelt (her Hanukkah character) throughout Southern California. She is super thrilled that her son, Blake, is joining her for a stage performance! @jactressz

Andrew Landecker is an actor, singer and musician. He is thrilled to join the cast of “Fiddler on the Roof” and carry on the “Tradition”. Recent credits include: LeFou, Beauty and the Beast. Tony Soprano, The Streaming Verse of Madness. Robin, Something Rotten!, Amos, Chicago, the Musical. Adventure Andy, Jurassic Quest National Tour. Speed, Sky High Remote Learning. Chester, The Bully Problem. Thank you to the “Fiddler” creative team for the opportunity, to my family and friends for their support. L’Chaim!

Thirteen-year-old singer/actress Eden Kontesz has been performing in concerts and musicals, on television and at sporting events and galas since she was five years old, appearing in such venues as the Beverly Hilton and the Saban Theatre. Since 2019, she has sung the National Anthem five times before a crowd of 45,000 at the opening games of Supercross at Angel Stadium, Anaheim. Ms. Kontesz has appeared in the television show Transparent and sung on The Simpsons. Recently, as a voiceover artist, Ms. Kontesz played the lead character in Bird Box Barcelona. Her voice was also featured on the series Don’t Look Deeper. A recording of the theme song from the movie Jacob the Baker was recently released. Musical theater credits include leading roles in Aladdin, Legally Blonde, Frozen and many others. In 2020, Ms. Kontesz participated as a lead singer in a global project for Corona Relief, a collaboration between singer Diane Warren and composer Sharon Farber, both Grammy Award winners, and the United Nations. The project featured singers from six continents in an ensemble of 200 singers and instrumentalists.

Samuel Adelmann, originally from Westport, CT, is a classically trained singer and actor who moved out to LA in late 2021. He got his BFA in Musical Theater and BS in Economics from Tulane University. Following graduation, he participated in the Musical Theatre Intensive at the Stella Adler School of Acting in New York and proceeded to immerse himself in the New York auditions scene. Here in Los Angeles, he’s focused on training at the BGB studio in North Hollywood and with Lesley Kahn and Co. Top credits include the Regional Premier of Newsies at the Summer Lyric Theatre in New Orleans and recurring contracts for Busch Gardens Williamsburg Christmas Town, along with some smaller projects in Los Angeles.

Brooke Forman is an LA based singer who studied theater arts at NYC’s Pace university. She grew up doing musical theater which is where she found her roots in music. After graduating, she began working for record labels learning the ins and outs of the music industry. That led her into Electronic Dance Music (EDM) where she wrote and sang on her record with Nicky Romero that went to number one on the charts worldwide. Brooke has gone on a world tour under her stage name Singa with Ultra Music Festival! She’s performed mainstage at Ultra Brazil, Japan, Singapore and Miami’s 20th Anniversary. Brooke completed a residency in Bali as a singer as well. She’s excited to get back to where it all began when she was a child, the love of theater. “It’s a true honor to be in a production of Fiddler on the Roof and it just hits home to play a role like Chava.”

Zach McDonald is thrilled to be making his VOPA debut as Fyedka in Fiddler on the Roof. Having received formative training at AMDA College and Conservatory and Mercersburg Academy, he credits his mentors and educators for instilling in him the skills and passion necessary for his craft. Recent credits include Bobby Strong in “Urinetown” and Pantalone in “Two Trusty Notaries,” experiences that have enriched his artistic growth. Most Recently, his portrayal of The Grinch at Universal Studios Hollywood was one of his most enriching roles to date and he enjoyed the opportunity to connect with audiences in a unique and memorable way, as he hopes to do here at VOPA. Zach would like to extend his heartfelt thanks to his family, friends, roommates and mentors whose unwavering support and guidance have been the cornerstone of his journey.

Randy Crenshaw has been called “the Swiss Army knife of L.A. studio singers”. He’s a busy singer, vocal arranger, and voice actor in Hollywood, with hundreds of film, television, commercial, and record credits. Since 2015, he’s been a featured character voice in the “Nightmare Before Christmas Live” concerts worldwide. Happily married for 45 years (to the same woman!), he has three beautiful grown daughters (very much like Tevye). As a former professional trumpet player who played in the pit orchestra for numerous local and regional productions of the great musical theater classics, he always wanted to play a singing character role, and now he’s gotten his chance! A million thanks to director Dylan Thomas! L’Chaim!

Judy Rosenfeld is thrilled to be able to play “Yente,” the Matchmaker, and is grateful to have been cast in this role. “Yente” minces no words, is inappropriate a lot, and looks out for herself all the time. “Yente’s” dry sense of humor is so appealing to Judy, both as an actor and audience member. Judy’s most exciting times onstage include performances in The Music Man, Ragtime, The Crucible, Man of La Mancha, The King & I, Guys & Dolls, Hello, Dolly! and Our Town. Judy is a member of Group Repertory Theater and Neo Ensemble. She currently trains in acting, singing and ballet. She loves to read (especially history, biography), train with her fitness trainer, and spend time with her two terrific cats, Nellie and Twofer.

Alexandra Ackerman couldn’t have dreamed of a more perfect marriage between VOPA, Maestra Noreen Green and The Jewish Symphony to bring Fiddler on The Roof to life on stage (l’chiam). Alexandra has worked extensively on stage and screen. Select credits: Off Broadway: It’s Just Sex (Lisa) Buddy: Regional Tour (Maria Elena US /Shirley), When Garbo Talks, (originated the role of Signe), The Little Mermaid (Ursula), Seussical (Mayzie), Pippin (Fastrada), Kiss Me Kate (Lois/Bianca), Tony Tina’s Wedding (Madelyn Monroe), A Chorus Line (Shiela) Tv/Film : Interstate (Veronica), Less Than Perfect; Days of Our Lives, Celebrity Ghost Stories; Voice Over: Herbal Essences (National commercials). Special thanks to Dylan, Shira, Noreen, and Julia for all their hard work.

Linda Escobar has been a singing actor and performer for over 40 years. She spent 25 years as a music teacher for Los Angeles Unified School District. She received her masters degree in vocal performance and choral conducting. Linda is now a music and acting coach, and in her spare time loves painting and walking.

Most of Neil H. Brown’s theatrical experience is with the JFed Players. His favorite roles include Michael in A Little Piece of Heaven, Sid Sorokin in The Pajama Game, Lt. Frank Cioffi in Curtains, Col. Parker in Judgment at Nuremberg (at the Pasadena Playhouse), Georg in She Loves Me, Tito Merelli in Lend Me a Tenor, and Aldolpho in The Drowsy Chaperone. Neil also relished playing James in Annie Baker’s Circle Mirror Transformation for the Women’s Theater Workshop.

Ráhel Steinberg is thrilled to be part of VOPA’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof”! She is a recent graduate of AMDA (spring ’23!) where she earned her BFA in Musical Theatre. Her most recent credits include Catherine in “The Children’s Hour” (Whitmore Lindley Theatre), Grace in “Between the Pages” (Conundrum Theatre Company) and some exciting work on short films. In her free time she loves to read, go to the beach, and talk about how much she loves and misses Budapest, her hometown. She’d like to thank her family & friends for always being supportive and loving.

Alex Denysov is a Ukrainian-American actor, filmmaker and musician known for his work on stage and screen. Growing up in a small town in Crimea, Ukraine, Alex found his love for performing early on at the age of 7 and hasn’t looked back since. Starting with school plays and local productions, Alex got his first screen experience at just 13 playing a leading role in a student thesis film. Since then, he’s been busy, appearing in various projects both in Ukraine and the US. Alex has earned degrees in acting and film/TV production, complemented by intensive training at The Second City and Michelle Danner Acting School. These experiences have enriched his skill set and provided invaluable opportunities for growth and refinement in his craft. His love for music has also been a driving force in his creative journey. As a recording artist, Alex has songs in various genres, ranging from alternative and rock to country and pop, showcasing his versatility and ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. Alex’s passion for storytelling led him to explore other aspects of the entertainment industry. He has also tried his hand at filmmaking, directing, and producing a few feature films and shorts, pilots for talk shows and sitcoms. With a strong foundation in acting, filmmaking, and music, Alex Denysov continues to pursue his creative endeavors, leaving his mark on both sides of the Atlantic.

Aaron Byrnes is thrilled to be joining VOPA for a production of Fiddler, one of his favorite shows in musical theater history. When not performing, he likes movies, video games, combat sports, and enjoying time with his family. Aaron is currently attending Cal Poly Pomona for Philosophy. Previous Credits Include: Man in Chair (The Drowsy Chaperone), Bert (Mary Poppins), Jack (Into the Woods), and Carlos (Descendants: The Musical). He hopes you enjoy the show!

Anthony Moresi has performed around SoCal much of the last decade. In 2019 his professional debuts were with Opera Santa Barbara chorus in Madama Butterfly, and Pacific Opera Project for their wacky production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado. Most recent performances with OSB were in Hector Armienta’s new opera Zorro (2024), and il Trovatore (2023), Carmen (2022), and La Traviata (2022) as a chorus member and a special appearance with the OSB Chrisman Studio Artists as the Bartender in Speed Dating Tonight (2021) by Michael Ching. Frequent appearances with POP’s chorus include Pirates of Penzance (2023) at Glendale Forest Lawn, Tchaikovsky’s Iolanta (2022) at the Aratani Theater, and Rossini’s La Cenerentola (2021) at the Ford in Hollywood. He had the unique opportunity of developing the character, Wyatt, in the original award-winning operetta by Brooke DeRosa, Gunfight at The-Not-So-OK Saloon, which premiered at the Hollywood Fringe Festival 2019 and was revised & revived in 2023. During undergraduate voice studies at CSUN he performed a number of roles: Mr. Page in The Merry Wives of Windsor (Nicolai), Le Fauteuil in L’enfant et les sortilèges (Ravel), il notario in Gianni Schicchi (Puccini) and Bartolo in Le Nozze di Figaro (Mozart) while earning a Bachelors of Music degree.

Tenor, Matthew Ellison, has enjoyed the privilege of performing all over Southern California. From Pacific Opera Project and California State University Northridge, to High Street Art Center and the Pasadena Playhouse, local opera lovers may recognize Matthew from previous POP performances such as “Elixir of Love” and “Iolanta”. In addition to opera Matthew’s two main passions are musical theatre and choral music. He has performed roles in many musicals around Southern California such as; Jason Robert Browns Parade, Sound of Music, Into the Woods by Steven Sondheim, Legally Blonde, Rent, and West Side Story. Matthew has performed in choirs all through high school and college at the competitive level and has had the honor of singing with conductors such as Donald Brinegar, John Sutton, Paul Smith, Michael Feinstein and Paul Solomunovitch. Matthew is overjoyed and so thankful to be working with VOPA and to be able to make music with so many amazing talented artists.

Eve Gomez is an emerging star from Los Angeles, known for her leading roles in the theater productions “Willy Wonka” and “Matilda.” A passionate performer, Eve captivates audiences, blending her talents in film, theater and music seamlessly. Offstage, she’s a prolific songwriter and enjoys spending time with her siblings. She is excited to perform in “Fiddler” with her mother, Laura Colten.

Ginny Cary is delighted to join VOPA in the cast of Fiddler on the Roof. Ginny’s previous roles include Baby Bear in MET2’s performance of Shrek Jr. the Musical, and Gretl von Trapp in the High Street Arts Center of The Sound of Music. When Ginny is not onstage, she enjoys singing, playing with her brother, Levi, and talking about singing. She would like to thank her family, friends, and the amazing cast of this show for their support.

Gerry Ezra Noriega is thrilled to join the Fiddler on the Roof cast. He is a proud member of the Guild of Temple Musicians. Noriega previously served as Cantorial Soloist at Temple Isaiah in Palm Springs and subs for cantors throughout Coachella Valley, San Fernando Valley, & Riverside counties. He is a member of Dr. Noreen Green’s LAJS: Jewish Community Choir. Noriega has an opera background with classical vocal training & extensive musical theater and dance training at the College of the Desert’s Opera Workshop and Theater Departments. Past roles include: Bunthorne in Patience or Bunthorne’s Bride, Betto in Gianni Schicchi, Ali in L’italiana in Algeri. 1st Man & Frug/Brass Band Dancer in Sweet Charity. He plans to attend a Jewish seminary in rabbinic & cantorial arts.

Cymbaline Filippi is a professional singer, actor, dancer, pianist, and flautist with many years of experience in the sacred, classical, and musical theater genres. She has been dancing since the age of 5, and choreographed Seussical the Musical, as well as several dance, musical theater, and choral numbers for various performances. Her favorite roles include Anna in The King and I, Fiona in Brigadoon, Nellie in South Pacific, and Marian the Librarian in The Music Man. She has always loved Fiddler on the Roof, and is excited to finally be choreographing and performing this beautiful musical. She also teaches general music, choir, and band at CHIME Charter School, to inspire the next generation of musicians. This is her third production with VOPA, and she feels blessed to be a part of it, and grateful to Shira and Dylan Thomas for believing in her and making her a part of their passion project.

Jake McDermott is so honored to be a part of this amazing and talented cast! Some of Jake’s recent theater shows include Baker in Into the Woods at Thousand Oaks High School, The Wizard of Oz at High Street Center of the Arts, and The Secret Garden with Conejo Players. He would like to thank his friends and family for their support, and his castmates for their knowledge and kindness.

Lisa Haufrect is so proud to share the stage with her son, Bowie. She has always wanted to be in “Fiddler” and is grateful for the opportunity to perform. She has a BA in Theater from UCLA, an MA and an MFA in Screenwriting, and is currently a full time mommy/aerobics instructor. Lisa has appeared in many Purim Shpiels at Temple Aliyah, now Hamakom. This will be her theatrical comeback, since “Young Frankenstein,” ten years ago! She’d like to thank her mom, sons: Sly and Bowie and her husband for his love and support.

Scott Firestone first learned about VOPA in 2017 when he saw an ad for a Best of Broadway review show. As Scott’s passion as a Drummer/Percussionist is in the genre of Musical Theatre, with his favorite show being HAIR, he contacted Jerry Brown to see if they possibly needed a Drummer for the show. They Did. Scott is proud to have been the Principal Drummer for VOPA for a variety of shows over the years. Scott is also the Principal drummer for the LAPD Band, and the Andromeda Electric Orchestra (AEO). Scott is following his passion for acting as well, and is honored to be working with VOPA as he crosses the curtain to the other side of the stage.

No stranger to the theatre, Mark Sterling made his debut as Aladdin’s lamp in 3rd grade; now 60 years later, Fiddler! This production is his real acting debut, and while he is nervous, showbiz is in his blood! Sterling’s father, Dick Sterling, was a singer/comedian and partnered for a short time with the legendary Shecky Green. His sister, Mindy, is a “movie star” with tons of credits, but she is best known for her role as Frau Farbissina in the Austin Powers movie series, and Miss Briggs in I-Carly. But don’t get it twisted, Mark is great in front of a crowd and has emceed hundreds of events! Mark is the owner of World’s Greatest Promotional Stuff, where he produces t-shirts and swag for companies, including the Fiddler t-shirts you’ll purchase today! He worked at Braemar Country Club as a Tennis Pro for 20 years, quitting in 1998. 24 years later, during the pandemic, Mark returned to Braemar part-time with his new dream title, “social ambassador.” In his new role, he is both a Tennis/Pickleball pro and also the ‘bringer of fun’ to social events. Mark is honored to have been asked to play Yussel in Fiddler, and hopes he made you laugh today!

Richard Yé, born and raised in Kansas City, began training in modern dance as an extracurricular activity, outside of college. This led him to earning scholarships to professional training programs at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, the University of Kansas and the Milwaukee Ballet, and he eventually completed his BFA in Dance at the University of Wisconsin. Richard has performed for numerous dance, theater and opera companies throughout the United States, including the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center, the Milwaukee Ballet and the Cincinnati Ballet Companies. He has performed for the Metropolitan Opera in Japan, Ballet for Young Audiences, before a stadium of fifty thousand in China, in various other shows in Ukraine, Russia, Canada, Ecuador and on a Carnival Cruise Ship in the Caribbean Sea. In recent years, Richard has performed in various Off, Off-Off and Off-Off-Off Broadway shows as an actor, singer, dancer, stage manager and director. He is a certified teacher in the American Ballet Theater National Training Curriculum. A few years ago, he left NYC for the sunny world of LA, CA where he now enjoys riding trails on his E-bike and studying piano and acting.

Sahand Zare, originally from Shiraz, Iran, embarked on a transformative journey at a young age, leaving his homeland to pursue his lifelong passion for music. Over the past 20 years, he has immersed himself in various musical styles, including classical, Persian traditional, and fusion genres, steadily honing his skills through diverse methodologies. Alongside his music performance studies, Sahand has dedicated himself to composition, sharing his creations through solo violin pieces and fusion music available online. As a co-founder and active member of the Sthalamus music band, he contributes to shaping their diverse repertoire. Currently, Sahand is pursuing his M.M. degree in violin performance at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) under the mentorship of Dr. Lorenz Gamma. He is eager to draw from his rich musical journey to contribute meaningfully to the community, both musically and culturally.

Emily Blanco is a versatile performer who specializes in jazz, musical theater, and contemporary music. She graduated with honors from CSUN with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance - Classical. She has had the honor of recording for Disney as well as collaborating with LA Opera Connects in their Community Cathedral Project productions. Past roles in assorted productions have been Rapunzel (Into the Woods), Carmen (Now and Then a Hero), Amore (Orfeo ed Euridice), Charlotte (A Christmas Carol), Elsie (Parade), and various Ensemble roles as a vocalist and dancer for shows such as Bizet’s Carmen, The Drowsy Chaperone, Jonah and the Whale, and Moses. She currently performs with the City of Angels Master Chorale and Chamber Choir as the Soprano 2 section leader. She looks forward to adding Fiddler on the Roof to her list of shows!

Lilach Cary is so excited to join VOPA for their production of Fiddler on the Roof. This is her first time on stage since before NYSNC said "Bye, Bye, Bye." When she isn't on stage, Lilach is hanging out with her wonderful family and working as a teacher. She is especially excited to work on this show with her daughter, Ginny, who is cast in the same role that Lilach played in her very first production 27 years ago. She'd like to thank her family, and everyone involved in putting this spectacular production together.

Laura Colten is an LA based singer and actor. Recently, she performed as the lead vocalist in the Comeback Cabaret at Don't Tell Mama in NYC. She is currently working on The Victor as a lead character, Sue Cresta, and is set to perform with the band ESQ at Whisky a Go Go in LA. Laura Lee has also performed in feature films, short films, TV shows, commercials, theatrical productions, and a music video. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her children and reading the latest best-selling novels! She is thrilled to perform alongside her daughter, Eve Gomez, in "Fiddler."

Ashley Cornell Ratinoff (Ensemble) is excited to be joining VOPA for their production of Fiddler on the Roof. Her previous performances with VOPA were in 2013 as a cover role for Suzuki in Madama Butterfly, 2015 as Cinderella’s Mother, and voicing The Giant in Into the Woods. The opportunity to be a part of this show and cast is something she has been looking forward to for a very long time. MSMC B.A. Vocal Performance in Opera

Blake Eli is excited to be performing in his first professional stage production. Other stage productions include Beetlejuice Jr (Beetlejuice), Encanto Jr (Mariano), Hip Hop Hamilton (The British Messenger), The Wizard of Oz (Toto). Coming Up: The Greatest Showman Jr, and Matilda Jr. He has been in a number of independent films and television projects, including “In Ice Cold Blood with Ice T”, 3 episodes of “Murder in the Heartland”, “Stranger Among Us”, and “Transformation” with Brian Austin Green, Eric Roberts, and Stephen Baldwin. He's gone viral in several “morality” videos, including “Homeless Child Finds Billionaire’s Wallet” with Life Reels, “If Depression Were a Person” and “I Am Not Black” with Prince EA. You may have seen him in the Netflix promo for “Fatherhood” with Kevin Hart, or spots for Paw Patrol, Capri Sun, ABC Mouse, Osmo/Byju, Batman Batcave, Aldi, Pocky, multiple pharmaceutical print jobs, or even on a billboard for Dignity Health. He is an avid drummer, an advanced level swimmer, is a walking encyclopedia for One Piece and Pokemon, and is always up for a good game of chess. He is happy to be doing a show with his mama.

Adalia Filippi is excited to be performing in her very first musical. She has been dancing since she was 2 years old, and loves to sing. She also performs aerial arts. She is excited to join the cast of Fiddler on the Roof as her mother’s daughter, acting, dancing, and singing along with her mom. She is thankful to her mom, dad, and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas for giving her the opportunity.

Bowie Haufrect is a sweet, funny seven year old, first grader at WISH Charter School. He has many hobbies and interests, including Kung Fu, horseback riding, music, dance, Boy Scouts and T-Ball. Bowie has appeared in several Purim Shpiels at Temple Aliyah. This is Bowie's first theatrical production and he's so happy and grateful to be part of the show. He'd like to thank his mommy, daddy, grandma and baby Sly for their love and support.

Debra Kamenir was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. Inspired by her mother, Claire, she acquired a love for singing and dancing from the time she was a little girl. It was in the choir of Temple Ramat Zion, some 40 years ago, that she and Claire began singing in Maestra Noreen Green’s choir, wherein a friendship developed between Debra and Noreen that has lasted to this day. Debra still sings in Noreen’s various choirs as often as she can. She also has appeared alongside her husband (acclaimed pianist, accompanist, composer and arranger, David Kamenir) performing medleys and duets with such groups as “The Pierce College Community Choir” and “The Encore Singers”, oftentimes choreographing her own routines. Due to her background in Ballet and Jazz, Debra also choreographs and sings with “Happy Notes”, a Harmony Group led by Kim Levett, that performs regularly at “The Jewish Home For The Aging” as well as various other venues throughout the Valley and Los Angeles. Debra received her music education by majoring in music at Pierce College and currently studies voice under the tutelage of acclaimed voice teacher, Tova Morcos. When not dancing or singing, you’ll find her styling hair in her private hair salon in Tarzana. Debra is thrilled to be performing in VOPA’S production of “Fiddler On The Roof”.

Eden Klapman is very excited to be a part of VOPA’s performance of Fiddler On The Roof. She was born and raised here in the valley and has been involved in theater for the last 3 years at Alfred B. Nobel Charter Middle School. The shows she has been in are Little Women, Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast. Her hobbies include baking, singing,and dancing. Eden has been doing competitive cheer since the age of 8. She wants to thank her dad for always supporting her, her mom for being her biggest cheerleader through the hardest times, her big sisters Emily and Alexis for always being goofy and willing to have a good laugh with her.

Maya Mariano is 15 years old and is thrilled to be making her VOPA debut! From a young age, Maya has been unwaveringly dedicated to her singing and performing skills, demonstrating a level of commitment and passion. Maya doesn’t just perform, she also vocal directs and writes harmonies. Her talent has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her impressive second-place finish in an international vocal competition, which earned her the opportunity to perform as an invited soloist at Carnegie Hall in New York City this upcoming June. Some of Maya’s past theater credits include: The Witch in "Into the Woods", Audrey in "Little Shop of Horrors", and Vivienne in "Legally Blonde". Maya remains ever thankful for the unwavering support and belief shown by her family and friends, whose encouragement has been instrumental in her journey.

Miranda Miller has been on stage since the age of 3, both in the theater world and the music world, playing piano, guitar, ukulele, and singing. She has spent many years of her life performing in bands around the world and teaching music, but is excited to focus on theater once again. Some of her favorite roles have included Liesl in The Sound of Music, Tenor 1 in Sweeney Todd, Sharpay in High School Musical, and Ewart Dunlop in The Music Man. She runs a children’s theater company in South Pasadena with her mom and enjoys directing, music directing, choreographing, and stage managing shows.

Dana Reynolds is delighted to be making her debut with VOPA. Favorite credits include Cathy Hiatt in The Last Five Years, Fantine in Les Miserables, and Cinderella in Into the Woods. She also produced and directed a community production of Narnia the Musical in Bay City, Oregon, directed a 3-week children’s musical theater camp, and taught theater classes for youth. She is the Program & Development Manager for The Narrative Method, a mental health non-profit addressing the epidemic of loneliness.

Bonnie Samotin is delighted to participate in her first VOPA production. Credits include Thoroughly Modern Millie (Ensemble) with the JW Repertory Company; cabaret showcases under the direction of Peisha McPhee, Christina Dunbar and Jason Graae; and choirs under the direction of Noreen Green (Jewish Community Chorale) and Sue Fink (Angel City Chorale). Bonnie works as associate producer for documentaries and has interviewed civil rights leaders, WWII veterans, scientists, political figures, celebrity entertainers and more. She’s happy to now join those taking the stage to tell the stories. She thanks the cast and crew for their warm welcome and support!

Jennifer Sax is so excited to be a part of VOPA’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof”. This is her debut musical theater performance in Los Angeles. Born and raised in New Jersey, Jennifer has been singing since her youth. She performed at Carnegie Hall as a soloist with International Jewish Teen Choir HaZamir. Jennifer studied Vocal Performance with a concentration in classical voice at New York University where she received a bachelor’s of music. During the day, Jennifer is a royalty specialist for Universal Music Group. She wants to thank her parents, Ady and Jeff, Husband Jon, and their dog Winston for always supporting her passions.

At just 9 years old, LilyAnn Thomas has already been an active performer. She has been in four musicals with Kismet Kids Musical Theatre – Willy Wonka, Annie, Grease, and Hercules – and looks forward to performing in Frozen and Aladdin with KKMT this summer. LilyAnn has also been in two different productions of the opera Suor Angelica, playing the title character’s child opposite her real-life mom, Shira Renee Thomas. Recently, LilyAnn joined the choir at her school, CHIME Charter, which performed on VOPA’s March 2024 concert, The Best of Broadway… And Everything Else. Besides theater, LilyAnn enjoys taking horseback riding lessons, swimming, and being with her family and friends.

Hayden Wilkoff is thrilled to be part of VOPA's Fiddler On The Roof. They recently appeared as Ensemble in #TheSocialMediaPlay and as Principal Duvall in Mean Girls. Hayden will be filming The Victor this summer, a Hunger Games fan series. They have been acting since the age of four. Favorite roles include Ensemble in Matilda, Squidward in Spongebob the Musical, and Tinman in Wizard of Oz. A huge thanks to the entire VOPA team, cast, and crew! Enjoy the show!

Brigitte Wise is very excited to be back on stage as part of VOPA’s Fiddler on the Roof! Select favorite roles include Susan in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Dee Dee in Nobody’s Perfect and dance ensemble member in Nine. Born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Brigitte grew up with a deep love of theater and being involved in the performing arts. Since moving to Los Angeles after graduating law school, she has continued being involved in creative fields, working in independent film, talent management, and currently in advertising. When not on stage, Brigitte can most likely be found fostering dogs, hyper fixating on a new hobby or turning any musical into a one-woman show to sing at her infinitely patient partner Rob and foster-fail pup Tilly. Endless thanks to her Mum and Dad, Rob and Tilly for their unwavering love, support and encouragement.

Shira Renee Thomas is the General & Artistic Director of Valley Opera & Performing Arts (VOPA), currently in its 18th season. VOPA has helped launch the careers of many singers and instrumentalists who’ve gone on to perform in organizations such as English National Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, Los Angeles Opera, San Francisco Opera, the Academy Awards, and the Hollywood Bowl, to name a few. As a singer herself, Shira has performed all over the world and with some of the biggest stars in opera. Among the numerous awards earned by her, Shira won 1st prize in the prestigious Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod Vocal Solo Competition in North Wales, which has hosted such legendary opera singers as Luciano Pavarotti and Bryn Terfel in past years. Having suffered from debilitating recurrent Depression for 25 years, Shira has become an advocate for mental health, and has been interviewed on the subject by National Geographic and KTTV News. She has also written articles for HuffPost and Classical Singer Magazine, and is frequently invited to attend various events and conferences to tell her story of overcoming Depression. Shira is grateful to the staff at Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles for helping her to finally beat the illness and go into remission.

Dylan F. Thomas recently returned from teaching as Guest Lecturer and Stage Director at Yale University, where he staged the Opera Scenes and taught his unique acting method, The Dressler Technique, in “Acting for Opera”. Dylan was named Opera Program Manager for the GRAMMY-winning National Children’s Chorus’s youth opera program, National Youth Opera Academy, where he teaches acting and co-directs the fully-staged operas during the summer opera camp. As a singer/actor himself, Dylan has performed all over the world in mahy different musical genres, including opera, musical theater, jazz, pop, and classic rock. He spent 11 months performing in several different productions for Universal Studios in Osaka, Japan, singing for tens of thousands of people every day. At Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre, he had the honor of performing for legendary musical theater lyricist and songwriter Sheldon Harnick in two of Harnick’s musicals: the rarely seen Rex, as well as Fiddler on the Roof. As a passionate educator, Dylan maintains a private acting studio, offering individual, small group, and large group classes for performers in all genres of theater, including musical theater, opera, straight theater, and tv/film. Acting student Eden Kontesz says that Dylan’s technique is “unique, different, and highly effective,” and Grammy-nominated composer Sharon Farber comments that he “offers a new perspective that is truly profound”. Superstar baritone, Quinn Kelsey, a favorite leading baritone at the Metropolitan Opera, shares that Dylan, “utilized his own intuitive twists on the storyline of certain pieces to give me as a singer a different perspective of my interpretation.”

Noreen Green is the Founding Artistic Director and Conductor of the Los Angeles Jewish Symphony (LAJS), which she created in 1994. A trailblazing, inspirational conductor, educator and lecturer known worldwide for her knowledge and skill in presenting music with Jewish themes, she has served as guest conductor and lecturer in the United States, Israel, South Africa, Spain, Australia, Canada and the Caribbean. Wherever she appears, Noreen Green exudes a spirit of joy and harmony – bringing people together through the universal language of music through a Jewish lens. In November 2022, as a panelist at the United Nations in New York City, Dr. Green spoke on Music and the Holocaust: History, Memory and Justice. In January 2023 and January 2024, she was a presenter at the International Conductors Guild Conferences on Jewish music topics (2023 in Valencia, Spain; 2024 in New York City). In June 2023, Dr. Green served as artist-in-residence, dramaturge, musical director and pianist for a three-week run of the play “Stories from the Violins of Hope” in Sydney, Australia, where she was also honored by a member of the Parliament of New South Wales for her participation in Jewish Arts’ “Melodies of Memories” at North Shore Temple. Due to her noteworthy accomplishments and prominence in her field, Dr. Green was recently inducted into the prestigious Marquis Who’s Who Biographical Registry. Dr. Green holds a Master of Music degree from California State University, Northridge, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California.

Julia Timmons is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University holding a BFA in Vocal Performance with a Minor in Music Technology and a Masters in Entertainment Industry Management (MEIM). Timmons currently serves as Executive Assistant to General and Artistic Director of VOPA, Shira R. Thomas. She is also an administrator at the Los Angeles Jewish Symphony and runs her vocal studio - JCT Vocal Studio. Timmons is accomplished both on and off stage. Some favorite onstage roles include Sandrina (La Finta Giardiniera), Sharpay (High School Musical), Penelope Pennywise (Urinetown) and Bunny Byron (Babes in Arms). Offstage, Timmons is skilled in audio technology, stage and production management, and Audio/Video capture and live streaming.

Paul Reid is very grateful to be joining such an amazing group of people for his first production with VOPA. He grew up at the Glendale Centre Theatre serving as “2nd boy on the left”, and throwing girls over his head, in just about every musical you can name. From there, he was fortunate enough to see the world, dancing for Princess Cruises, and after that came home for one of his favorite gigs, portraying Stan Laurel, at Universal Studios, for about 5 years.

Matt Mariano has enjoyed a 29-year career composing, orchestrating, and producing music for high-profile network television studios such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and Netflix, as well as for film studios such as Sony, Warner Bros., FOX, and numerous indie studios. He began his professional career at the age of 20 at a commercial music house in NYC, where his clients included McDonald’s, Barbie, and Sears. Matt transitioned to long-form scoring with documentaries for the Discovery Channel and PBS before relocating to Los Angeles. A pianist trained in both jazz and classical disciplines, Matt also has the unique ability to perform on multiple instruments. He graduated cum laude from Berklee College of Music, where he studied Composition, Music Synthesis, and Audio Engineering. Matt’s productions are based out of his studio in Sherman Oaks, CA. He is thrilled to see his daughter, Maya, performing with VOPA for the first time in this production of Fiddler on the Roof!

Stephanie Sandler is a freelance theatre technician, specializing as a lighting designer and electrician. She is based in Southern California, working in theatres both up the coast and down in LA. Stephanie is honored to have been part of VOPA’s production of Fiddler on the Roof and hopes you enjoy the show!

Isabel Rodriguez is delighted to join Valley Opera and Performing Arts on this production of Fiddler on the Roof. She is a Los Angeles native and graduate of Cal State University, Northridge. Her recent theatre credits include Hamlet, Solus (ISC), Sweeney Todd (VNHS), Urinetown (VNHS), The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (VNHS) and her recent TV credits include Property Brothers (HGTV), Bunk’d (Disney), Warped (Nickelodeon), Dahmer (Netflix). Many thanks to her family, friends, and mentors.

Opera singer, violinist, web developer, graphic designer, and master multitasker, Laura has starred in obscure operas, founded two opera companies (because one wasn't crazy enough), and juggles a career in web development & design while freelancing for nonprofits and artists. Her household is a zoo with a parade of dogs and cats, and she spends her free time painting everything in sight and trying to clean up after her menagerie. An ADHD-addled, middle-aged, leftist single mom in the conservative South (Chattanooga, TN), Laura lives for Dr. Pepper & Little Debbie Snack Cakes, loathes water and the gym, and yet is perpetually perplexed by her mysterious menopausal weight gain. Despite the chaos, she remains a Renaissance woman with a sharp wit and a healthy (ok, maybe more than healthy) dose of sarcasm thrown in for good measure.